Washington National Guard Conducts Aviation Exchange with Royal Thai Army and Navy
From November 28 to December 16, 2025, Guardsmen from the Washington National Guard's 96th Aviation Troop Command engaged in an Aviation Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) with the Royal Thai Army and Navy in Thailand. The exchange, which occurred in Lopburi, Bangkok, and Pattaya, aimed to enhance aviation safety and interoperability under the State Partnership Program.
Participants focused on aviation operations, maintenance, supply chain management, and safety practices. This collaboration has evolved since 2015, expanding from the Royal Thai Army to include the Royal Thai Air Force and Navy.
The engagement in Pattaya marked the first interaction between the Washington National Guard and the Royal Thai Navy. Leaders from both sides discussed aviation safety, expectations, and identified gaps for future cooperation. The initiative aims to foster joint interoperability and align aviation safety standards.
